Health Information

Growing Pains

Definition

Growing pains are temporary pains of the limbs in children. They often occur in the afternoon, evening, or shortly after going to sleep. These pains usually last 30 minutes to 2 hours. These pains are not associated with serious or dangerous conditions.

Causes

Growing pains are not actually associated with growth. The pain may develop for no reason or after periods of excessive physical activity, such as running, jumping, and climbing. It may also be the result of:

Lower pain threshold

Decreased bone strength

Hypermobility syndrome—the joint is looser than it should be

Risk Factors

Growing pains are most common in children aged 4-14 years. It occurs equally in boys and girls.

Factors that may increase the risk of growing pains include:

A family history of growing pains

Emotional or family stress

Personal or family history of migraines

Family history of restless legs syndrome (RLS)

Rapid growth has not been proven to be a risk factor for growing pains.

Symptoms

Growing pains often occur in the front of the thighs, calves, or behind the knees but may also occur in the upper limbs. The pain will come and go and does not occur every day. Pain that occurs in the evening may awaken a child from sleep.

Growing pain does not happen in the morning and does not occur constantly.

Growing pains are normal most of the time. Healthy Children—American Academy of Pediatrics website. Available at: https://www.healthychildren.org/English/health-issues/conditions/orthopedic/Pages/Growing-Pains-Are-Normal-Most-Of-The-Time.aspx. Updated November 21, 2015. Accessed March 19, 2018.

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.